The Cypress Health Region is sponsoring a new clinic to help improve the health and well-being of children struggling with weight concerns. The goal of the Family Centre for Weight and Health is to help children feel happy about themselves, feel loved and accepted for whom they are, and to establish lifelong healthy eating and physical activity habits. The Centre uses a team-based approach to care that includes a pediatrician, registered dietitian, physical therapist, and counsellor.
“We believe that obesity management is about improving health and well-being and not simply about a reduction to the numbers on a scale,” commented Dr. Shamsuddin Fakhir, a Paediatrician with Cypress Health. “Our objective is to help children who are struggling with their weight to make lifestyle changes which will ultimately lead to a healthier future.”
Obesity is a complex condition and is often the result of many factors, including lifestyle habits, genetics, sleep problems, and environments that do not promote optimal health. As such, the Centre is one component of a multi-pronged strategy called ‘Growing Healthy Families: A Prairie Wellness Initiative’. The new initiative has brought together the Holy Trinity and Chinook School Divisions, the Cypress Health Region, the City of Swift Current, and other key community partners to help make healthy living easier within the southwest.
Brandy Winquist, Chair of the Growing Healthy Families initiative, emphasizes the benefits of the partnership. “The Family Centre for Weight and Health is a valuable resource for parents concerned about their child’s weight,” said Winquist. “It is the first clinic of this type in Saskatchewan, but similar clinics exist in other provinces. While we are working with our partners to promote healthier lifestyles in community and school settings, some families will benefit from a more personalized approach to care facilitated by a team of experts.”
Children aged 6-17 years are invited to participate in the Family Centre for Weight and Health. The Clinic uses a holistic approach and parental involvement is a prerequisite. Children and youth may be referred by their family physician, paediatrician, nurse practitioner, or other health professional. Parents may also call 306-778-5118 to access the program or obtain additional information.